As bettors get ready for the 2024 NFL season, there are myriad decisions that need to be made, from the frequency of wagering to how much money to set aside for bets.

Optimove’s “Insights 2024-25 Consumer Reports on NFL Wagering Intentions” sheds some light on what to expect from bettors this year as the NFL season kicks off.

The report, to be released August 22, provides an outline of betting behaviors as the season begins September 5 with a game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens.

“Key findings from the report include significant increases in betting frequency, confidence, and engagement, as well as insights into the motivations and habits of bettors,” the report states.

One key takeaway from the reports is that bettors plan to wager more this season. The report states that 71% of wagerers will bet on one or more games each week, up from 63% in 2023. About 43% of bettors will wager several times a week, compared to 37% last year. 79% of bettors will wager on the regular season, compared to 69% in 2023.

Regarding what type of bets are most popular, 68% of respondents indicated a preference for points spreads, followed by over/under wagers and moneyline bets at 62%. There’s also good news for live game betting – 85% plan to wager during games compared to 61% in 2023.

Bettors do seem to be more cautious with betting, with 90% setting budgets for weekly or seasonal gambling.

But they are not wed to any specific gaming app. According to the survey, 68% of respondents use two or more betting sites each week, compared to 54% last year. And 42% of bettors cited promotions, including free wagers, as the reason for choosing a site.

Respondents also said they participate in betting pools (94%) or fantasy football (79%).  And 74% regularly watch NFL games, with 90% stating that it enhances their enjoyment.

There was also good news for responsible gaming advocates: 97% of bettors said they were aware of responsible gaming resources, and 67% said they used said resources to set betting limits or address problem gambling issues. But 68% of bettors said they would probably wager more than they could afford or wanted to lose, from 45% in 2023.

“The findings highlight the dynamic nature of NFL betting, the importance of responsible gambling, and the need for sportsbooks to optimize their engagement and generosity programs to enhance player satisfaction and loyalty,” the report stated.

Optimove’s “Insights 2024-25 Consumer Reports on NFL Wagering Intentions” is based on responses from 356 U.S. citizens, 21 and older, with incomes of more than $75,000 who bet on NFL games.

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